'The total package is Ms. Fox': Fairview Elementary teacher named educator of the year
When Kathy Fox left her career as a public accountant to become a teacher, she was just happy to be doing work that she felt made a difference.
To her surprise her work was recognized, and she was named Horace Mann Educator of the Year at a celebration held at Fairview Elementary school on Thursday afternoon.
"I was shocked out of my mind when I heard my name, I feel so lucky to get an award for something I love," Fox said. "I already felt like a winner as one of five finalists out of many wonderful educators. It's truly an honor."
More: Lanphier high school assistant principal named Horace Mann administrator of the year
Fox is from Springfield and has worked for District 186 for more than 20 years. She currently teaches fourth grade.
She was honored with a crystal owl award and a $1,400 prize by Superintendent Jennifer Gill at the celebration held in front of students, faculty, and staff.
"She has helped so many students past and present and she's mentored staff so were just so proud of her and happy she's here," said school principal Patricia Nikson. "She's an amazing woman, the total package is Ms. Fox."
Fox said she's a warm demander when teaching and her secret is creating relationships with students from the beginning and being consistent.
"I tell them if you choose this action this is going to be the consequence but it's because I believe in you so much. I want you to be a thinker and not give up on yourself," she said.
Fox earned her Bachelor's degree in accounting and a teaching certificate from the University of Illinois Springfield. She also earned her masters in reading from Western Illinois university.
Fox said she loved being an account but always wanted to become a teacher and would advise anyone considering a career change that it's never too late.
“I have loved every second of it, Are there challenges? Yes, but are the rewards outweighing the challenges every day? Absolutely,” she said.
Finalists for Educator of the Year were Lelah Cookson of Lanphier High School, Brett Dabbs of Southeast High School, and Wayne Hamilton Jr. (Jefferson Hamilton, Jr.) and Cecelia Schurman of Washington Middle School. Each received $250.
The Rising Star Award, which honors three promising teachers who have been with District 186 for four years or less, was given to Elizabeth Gilmore of Matheny-Withrow elementary school, Trisha Iainennaro of Lanphier High School, and Stefanie Midiri of Marsh Elementary. They each received $250 and a crystal award.
Horace Mann Educators Corporation is the largest financial services company focused on helping America’s educators and others who serve the community achieve lifelong financial success.
Administrator of the year, Educator of the year, and Rising Star award recipients were chosen by an independent panel of community and educational leaders from the Springfield area.
This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Horace Mann Teacher of the year 2023
